The Sirena (mermaid, or siren) is a very popular subject of western folklore. This beautiful yet deadly creature, both beautiful and monstrous, has often been softened since the tales of the Iliad. Our romantic idea of the mermaid comes from Hans Christian Anderson and the European fairy tales that he collected and wrote. It is this Sirena that I depict, dancerly, beautiful, and full of youthful energy as she swims across the page and splashes with color before you. She is provocative yet sweet.